A civic reception has been held in the Guildhall in honour of departing Dean of St Columb’s Cathedral, Dean William Morton.
Dean Morton will leave Derry later this month to take over at St Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin.
He has been based at St Columb’s for 19 years.
The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Alderman Hilary McClintock, hosted the reception at the Guildhall on Friday.
Extending her best wishes to Dean Morton on his new appointment, the Mayor said while she was sad to see the Rev Morton leaving, she was delighted he had been selected for such a high profile post.
Paying tribute to Rev Morton, Mayor McClintock said he had played a very important role in his 19 years in the city.
“I was very pleased to host a reception for Rev Morton to acknowledge the contribution he has made in so many aspects of life in the Londonderry area,” she said.
“Rev Morton is a hugely popular member of our community who has provided superb pastoral care and guidance to his congregation and wider community.
“He has played a significant role in promoting the work of the Diocese of Derry and Raphoe by diversifying the role of the Church building by opening it up for events and exhibitions and making it more accessible to the wider public.
“Dean Morton has been extremely proactive in working with the other Churches and denominations, promoting a shared future. His positive work to promote community relations and building on cross border relations has been significant in uniting our communities and promoting good relations.”
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